How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Ocala
Consider each moving company's customer reviews, services, licensing, and cost before deciding.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for a local mover in Ocala is $50. Based on this, a local two-bedroom move costs approximately $4,205 in total. Factors that affect your actual cost include the season, any additional tasks you need done, move distance, and your home size.
You should get quotes from three or more movers in your area. Request written estimates that break down the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final invoice to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are valuable when evaluating moving companies. Take time to read customer reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, social media, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, and Yelp to find movers that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Ocala must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are moving from one Florida city to another, your mover must be registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). You can verify the company has an active license using its License Lookup tool.
If you're moving across state lines, the regulations are different. Interstate moving companies must be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and must carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use these numbers to look up a mover’s registration status and complaint history on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assessing whether the mover offers the services you need is essential during the quote process. Take a full inventory of your home before requesting quotes and write down any basic or add-on services you may need. Furthermore, inform your moving company representative about any particular requirements or unique circumstances you may have to evaluate the company's capability to offer suitable service.
Types of Moving Services
A full-service mover includes these services for standard moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When requesting a quote from your moving company, communicate any additional services you require. Increased pricing may apply for the following services:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Ocala, FL
Here are some extra tips to keep in mind when moving in Ocala.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Ocala can often cause delays. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. Planning your move for the early morning ensures that your movers arrive before rush hour and make the trip to your new home in the middle of the day when traffic is limited.
Avoid Busy Season
The peak moving season—between May and September—coincides with Ocala's hottest time of year. This can negatively impact your moving process if you begin looking too late and can't find an available moving company. If you book far enough in advance, you should be able to schedule with your preferred mover regardless of the month. However, the movers may be hindered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies only transport items that have been properly packed by the scheduled moving time, so you should have everything boxed up before their arrival. You should start packing around six weeks in advance. Pack a few boxes each day to avoid rushing when move day comes. Your movers may have a few spare boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t depend on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in Ocala, FL
Movers in Ocala cost $2,628 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,047 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
| Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 250 miles | $2,628 | $3,049 | $7,047 |
| 250-999 miles | $3,241 | $3,668 | $10,534 |
| 1,000-2,499 miles | $3,277 | $4,216 | $10,848 |
| 2,500+ miles | $3,183 | $5,280 | $12,982 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Ocala
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